Presidents Of Angola Since 1975

Since Angola received its independence from Portugal in 1975, two presidents have served the country.

The official flag of Angola.

The Republic of Angola is a country located in South Africa that borders the Democratic Republic of Congo, Namibia, Zambia, and the Atlantic Ocean. Angola is the seventh largest country in Africa whose capital city is Luanda. The president of Angola is both the head of state and head of government after their constitution abolished the post of the prime minister. The president of Angola has all the executive authority as well as an extent of legislative powers meaning the president of Angola can govern the country by decree. Angola's presidential position dates back to when Angola got its independence in 1975, and from that time it has had only two presidents.

Presidents Of Angola Since 1975

Agostinho Neto 1975-1979

Antonio Agostinho Neto was Angola's first president, and he came to power after his then Marxist Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola won over control of the country from Portugal. He was the president of Angola from 1975 until his death in 1979 after he fought for colonial liberation and independence from 1961 to 1974. President Neto was known for his literary activities and is considered as one of Angola's most skillful poets. President Neto's birthday is celebrated as a public holiday in Angola known as the National Hero's Day.

José Eduardo dos Santos From 1979

Jose Eduardo dos Santos was born on August 28, 1942, and has been the president of Angola since the death of President Agostinho Neto in 1979. He is the commander of Angola's armed forces and the president of the party that has governed Angola since gaining Independence, known as People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola. Jose Eduardo dos Santos is the second longest serving president in Africa.

The situation in Angola

Angola was among the sources of millions of slaves sold to Brazil and other countries and after independence it plunged into a 14 year guerrilla war. There was also a civil war of main ethnic groups lasting 16 years and finally a peace agreement was reached. The 1991 elections were disputed and renewed conflict was rekindled 18 months later. The civil war in Angola lasted 27 years and peace was reached in 2002. The country has been ravaged with war with numerous landmines plated across the country. Although Angola is oil rich country, it is one of the poorest countries in the world with life expectancy of 40 years, the lowest in Africa.